The opening verse of Proverbs (1:7) sums up the entire book, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge. Fools despise wisdom and instruction." The first poem about Wisdom is given (1:20-33). Wisdom is personified as a woman. She cries aloud in the streets proclaiming God's will that His law and grace are for all people everywhere. Wisdom compels us to listen, repent, and trust in the LORD. God promises that those who do, will dwell securely and will be at ease and without the dread of disaster (1:33).